PHNOM PENH: The presidents of the leading political parties of Russia and Cambodia met to affirm their bilateral commitment to fighting any potential threats to their governments.
On January 22, former Prime Minister and President of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) Hun Sen held a video call with President of the United Russia Party Dmitry Medvedev, who is a former Prime Minister himself. The two political leaders agreed on the need to “fight the color revolution” which they categorized as interference in internal affairs and a threat to national security.
Color Revolutions traditionally refer to the post-Soviet movements calling for democracy in former Soviet states, which took place in the early 2000’s. The term has also been used to refer to protests, which are often accused of being influenced by foreign entities.
During the 20-minute conversation, the leaders of the two parties highlighted the advantages of cooperation between the CPP and United Russia, which they said has spanned the last 25 years. They said that the two parties must unite to prevent a color revolution and any outside intervention in their countries’ internal affairs. They agreed to help each other and share experiences as needed.
The two men supported more international cooperation through bilateral, multilateral and regional forums where they can hold in-depth discussions on unifying to safeguard the interests of their respective regions. They hope such forums will create an atmosphere of mutual understanding and assistance in accordance with the laws in place at the United Nations.
The leaders of the two parties agreed that the most important cooperation is in the rule of law. They said that the National Assemblies and the Senates of the two countries have always cooperated with each other, and promised that their parties would further promote this cooperation, especially as Hun Sen becomes President of the Senate following next month’s elections.
The party presidents emphasized the need for cooperation among the younger generation, with Russia extending its congratulations to Prime Minister Hun Manet’s ascent to power. Since taking office, the PM has also been made Vice-President of the CPP.
The leaders also supported cooperation in major forums such as BRICS, which they hope will create more allies in Eurasia and the Russian-Mekong community.
The CPP and Russia United have agreed to review old agreements and initiate new ones to further strengthen the alliance between the two long-reigning parties.
